Teen parents in the juvenile justice system

• In Event: Roundtable: Understudied areas in juvenile justice - CANCELLED

Abstract

Despite a great deal of focus on incarcerated adult parents, very little is known about incarcerated teen parents. Yet, this group is a likely even more disadvantaged, stigmatized, and strained than the average JJS-involved youth. Drawing on a handful of qualitative accounts and even fewer qualitative studies, this discussion will center on identifying what we know and what we have yet to understand about this group. This will include a discussion of the prevalence of teen parents in the JJS, the unique challenges they face as they navigate the dual challenges of parenting and JJS involvement, and the role the system plays in their trajectories. A central focus will be a call to action about next steps in understanding this understudied, yet vulnerable population.

Author

• Brae Young, Texas Christian University